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How to Catch Big Cats on the Red River

Although it is right in our backyard, most fishing enthusiasts in the metro don’t know how to fish the Red River.

Many who do try their hand at fishing the mighty red are discouraged by constant snags, and others don’t even make an attempt at the fast-flowing body of water, which is unfortunate because fishing the Red can offer anyone who partakes a unique experience. Playing the river is a delicate game, there are tricks to the trade. What’s more, the payoff can be exhilarating! Catfish on the Red River can weigh over 30 pounds, and you’ll feel every bit of that in the fight they put up.

Whether you’re looking for something fun to do with the kiddos (or you just need to get away for a bit), no one should be discouraged about fishing in their backyard. We spoke with a man who is very passionate about fishing for catfish on the Red River, You Betcha Videographer and Personality Tyler Ziegler, to get a few tips.

You Betcha personality/cameraman and fishing enthusiast, Tyler Ziegler

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Catching The Catfish Bait

You can use many different types of bait to catch catfish, however, you’ll want to make sure you’re using something smelly. People have used everything from hot dogs to pieces of raw chicken. However, one of the most commonly used baits for catfishing on the Red River is goldeye.

Anglers will typically fish to catch goldeye, which are legal to use as they’re classified as a “rough” fish. First, we will teach you how to fish for goldeye, then we will teach you how to fish for catfish.

Did You Know?

The State Record for largest channel catfish is 41 lbs 1 oz and was caught by Tina Willis on Moon Lake in 2009.

#1 The SetUp

The Hook

When fishing for goldeye, you’re going to use a regular hook and you want your bait close to the river bottom. However, you don’t want your hook sinking all the way to the bottom where you’ll find yourself dealing with constant snags.

That’s why you’ll be using a bobber.

The Bobber

Just about any bobber will do. However, the position of the bobber is very important.

“I want my bait to be about a foot off the bottom of the river,” Ziegler said. “So, the position of my bobber will be based on the depth of the water that I’m fishing in at the time.”

#2 The Bait

“For goldeyes, I typically use nightcrawlers or power bait if I have to,” Ziegler said. “But 9 times out of 10, I’ll go to the bait shop and get nightcrawlers.”

#3 Getting That Line In The Water

Although you’ll be using a bobber when fishing for Goldeye, you’ll still be casting and reeling due to the current of the water.

“When I’m fishing for my cutbait, I’m going to cast as far upstream as I can,” Ziegler said. “Then, I’ll let it float downstream until it starts to come back towards the bank. Then, you’ll reel it back in and cast again.

Written by Brady Drake

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